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Do You Need Breast Reduction?

While many women are in surgical pursuit of larger breasts, a large
number of women wish for breast reduction. Having too-large, heavy
breasts can be a serious health problem linked with back, neck and
shoulder pain, as well as self-image issues, limited activity due to
embarrassment, and unwanted attention.

Also known as reduction mammaplasty, reducing the size of breasts
involves removing fat, glandular tissue and skin to make the breast
smaller. Reduction can also include reducing the size of areola.
Ultimately, the goal is to alleviate stress to the body and achieve a
smaller, more proportionate appearance of the breast in terms of body
size and shape.

Reduction mammaplasty is typically performed on fully developed
women, but can be performed on teens that experience serious physical
discomfort. It is not recommended that teens undergo any plastic
surgery without serious consultation and evaluation for mental
conditions such as Body Dismorphic Disorder.

Procedure Techniques for effective breast
reduction can vary, but typically, the procedure involves what is
called an anchor incision that circles the areola and nipple and
extends down from the centre, and follows the natural crease of the
breast. The surgeon will remove fat, tissue and skin and move the
nipple and areola to its new position on the breast. Usually nipples
and areola remain attached to their blood vessels and nerves; however
in some cases of very large breasts, the nipple area may have to be
removed and grafted onto the breast in a higher position, which will
result in loss of sensation in the nipple tissue. The surgeon will then
reshape the skin to the contour of the breast.

In addition to the surgical removal of fat, liposuction may be used to remove any excess fat from the armpit area. Stitches will then close the anchor shaped incisions.

Cost Because large breasts can cause physical
problems, the fees for breast reduction are typically covered by
medical insurance companies with a recommendation from a doctor.

Recovery Post surgery the patient is bandaged
in a surgical elastic bandage and surgical bra over top of gauze
dressings. A tube may need to be inserted to help the drainage of
fluids. Usually patients are able to return home the day following
surgery and able to move around in a day or two when bandages and
drainage tubes are removed. Swelling and bruising is normal, and of
course, the area will be tender and painful for a few days. The surgical bra will be worn constantly for several weeks following the surgery until the surgeon allows its removal.

Your surgeon will give you detailed instruction concerning your
recovery, but keep in mind that sexual stimulation and vigorous
activity should be avoided for about six weeks. Expect some loss of
feeling in the breasts and nipple area to last for a few weeks, as well
as some fluid drainage and crusting around the sutures. Aching and
random pain is normal as your breasts heal.

Risk Typically, breast reduction carries the
same risk as any other invasive breast procedure. Infection, swelling,
bleeding and pain should be expected. Make sure your surgeon makes you
aware of the signs and symptoms to be watchful for during recovery.
Keep in mind that scarring is a reality and that while scars will fade
over time; you may feel self-conscious about them.